H5N1 avian influenza (H5 bird flu)

A case of H5 bird flu has been confirmed in Victoria for the first time.

The disease was confirmed in a greater crested tern at Portland on 30th July.

There are also six further suspect cases, all in greater crested terns:four at Portland and two at Nelson Bay. Samples are undergoing confirmatory testing at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness.

Cases of H5 bird flu, also known as H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza, have previously been confirmed in Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales.

There are no detections in poultry in Australia and no signs of mass wildlife deaths.

There are currently no movement restrictions in place for poultry or bird movement in Victoria.

Overseas, this strain has caused severe disease and high death rates in poultry, wild birds and other wildlife. Human cases are rare and the virus does not spread easily between people.

If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife, do not touch them.

Avoid direct contact. Record what you see. Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline or using the form below.